Matters of concern: Mapping past and future craft identities

Townsend, K ORCID: https://orcid.org/0000-0003-2212-2511, Potter, Gemma ORCID: https://orcid.org/0000-0002-1033-3787 and Pagett, B ORCID: https://orcid.org/0009-0004-0247-2711 (2025) Matters of concern: Mapping past and future craft identities. Craft Research, 16 (1). pp. 3-10. ISSN 2040-4689

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Abstract

Volume 16.1 features a variety of contributions that explore the transformative power of craft, highlighting its cultural, material and personal significance in shaping identities, connecting the past and present and offering possibilities for sustainable futures. Chaterjee et al. reflect on the struggle to sustain the heritage craft of linen making in Portugal. Shaw’s Portrait showcases the work of the last remaining lapidaire in France. Writing on batik, Ciptandi and Utami Bastaman similarly discuss the challenges of maintaining traditional practices amidst an ever-changing craft landscape, suggesting that transformation is inevitable. Ferraro illustrates a mindful way to navigate the unknown, by reflecting on her personal experiences and stitching practice, whilst Setyawan explores the transformative experiences of working with clay. Themes of self-exploration and identity are also present in a book review of The Point of the Needle: Why Sewing Matters (2023) and the Locating Menswear conference review. The review of the Green Making | Materials | Objects exhibition and the Remarkable Image further explore craft’s transformative potential in relation to sustainability.